Cyprus sets sights on the UAE’s outbound meetings industry

UAE: The Cyprus Convention Bureau, the dedicated meeting and events division of Cyprus Tourism Organisation, is ramping up its efforts to position the Mediterranean island as the ideal destination for business and events following a successful UAE roadshow.

As part of its regional promotional activities, the Cyprus Convention Bureau, which uses an attractive programme of grants, benefits and incentives to internationally promote Cyprus as a conference and incentive travel destination, hosted a workshop with more than 50 key travel agents and corporate travel bookers in Dubai this week. The event was supported by the Cyprus Ambassador to the UAE, H.E. Vasilis Polemitis, and representatives from Cyprus-based airline,Cobalt, which launched a new Abu Dhabi service earlier this month.

“The UAE and Cyprus has long favoured a fruitful business relationship, which is expected to continue following the recently launched flight with Cobalt, providing additional accessibility for those considering hosting events and conference on the island,” H.E. Vasilis Polemitis said. “To a great extent Cyprus is one of the most safe and dynamic tourist and business destinations, and it is now an opportune time to take advantage of the short distance from both Dubai and Abu

Dhabi.”

Cyprus, now accessible by direct, four-hour flights from both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, presents a wealth of opportunities to create new business, and is the ideal destination for seasonal outbound incentive trips due to temperatures cooler than those experienced in the Middle East. “The reputation of Cyprus as a quality destination that offers a complete and world-class MICE package is set to reach meteoric heights this year,” Michalis Metaxas, Director of Tourism, Cyprus

Tourism Organisation, noted. “The island’s location, favourable weather conditions and its status as a modern and progressive member of the European Union are just some of the reasons for its fast-gaining popularity.”

As one of the world’s oldest civilisations and a rich history dating back more than 11,000 years,Cyprus allows delegates to immerse themselves in a wealth of ancient culture, whilst also enjoying hospitality as warm as its yellow-hued beaches. From delicious cuisine and traditional tavernas, to diverse relaxation and entertainment options, business can be seamlessly combined with pleasure. Combining a conference with the many outdoor activities the island offers is easy thanks to the island’s fantastic year-round weather and the short travel distances across the island. In addition to its core programme of grants, benefits and incentive available in its technical and financial support schemes, the Cyprus Convention Bureau can offer travel bookers perks such as informative material, any kind of technical support such as permits to archaeological sites, as well as financial support and schemes.

“During the busy summer period for leisure travel, Cyprus hosts a number of international events,and we’re also keen to encourage further inbound business during the October-April off-peak season,” added Metaxas. “This period not only presents wider availability, but also provides additional value for money.”

Having recorded record-breaking international visitor numbers in 2017, the Cyprus Tourism Organisation anticipates further double-digit growth this year. According to the Statistical Service of the Ministry of Finance, international visitors to Cyprus in 2017 increased by 14.6 per cent year- on-year. Arrivals from the GCC grew by 21.3 per cent, with the UAE achieving 19.6 per cent annual growth in arrivals.

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